Japan Tightens Refugee Screening Rules, Sparking Controversy
On June 10, 2023, Japan implemented stricter refugee screening rules, raising concerns about the potential deportation of individuals facing persecution in their home countries. The revised Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Law, passed amidst fierce opposition, allows for the deportation of individuals whose third application for refugee status is pending, even if a decision is yet to be made.
Previously, deportation orders were suspended during pending refugee applications. However, the new law permits deportation during third applications unless there is a "good reason" for exemption. This change has sparked concerns that individuals fleeing persecution could be sent back to dangerous situations.
The revised law also introduces a provision allowing some visa overstayers to live outside of detention facilities while awaiting deportation. These individuals will be monitored by designated supervisors, such as supporters or relatives, to ensure compliance with their departure orders.
The implementation of these stricter rules has been met with criticism from human rights groups and opposition parties, who argue that they violate Japan's international obligations to protect refugees. The government, however, maintains that the changes are necessary to address the issue of illegal immigration and to streamline the refugee screening process.